This week, Senators gave their okay to raising the speed limit on Illinois highways, but Governor Pat Quinn isn't so sure. IPR’S Amanda Vinicky reports.
Drivers could legally put the pedal to the metal a BIT more under a measure recently approved by the state Senate. Cars could go 70 miles an hour on most interstates and tollways, rather than 65.
Proponents say that's how fast drivers go, anyway. And it's already the speed limit in many neighboring states. But Governor Pat Quinn is signaling caution.
"My view on everything is, when it comes to our roads, it's all about safety."
The Chicago Democrat says he wants to hear from transportation experts. Already, his own state transportation department has already come out in opposition.
IDOT says raising the speed limit will lead to more crashes and deaths. The department says drivers tend to go 5 to 10 miles over the speed limit, regardless of where it's set.
IDOT points to a statistic that shows Illinois has fewer speed-related fatalities from accidents on rural highways than other states. Quinn may not have to decide. The House could still put the brakes on the plan.